Asteroids
Gaia mission reveals causes of tumbling asteroids
Scientists using data from the European Space Agency's Gaia mission have explained why some asteroids tumble chaotically while others spin steadily, linking it to collision frequency. The findings, presented at the EPSC-DPS2025 Joint Meeting in Helsinki, show a gap in rotation speeds that divides asteroid populations and indicates most are loose rubble piles. This could improve strategies for deflecting hazardous asteroids.
3D images confirm ancient asteroid crater beneath Atlantic
Researchers have unveiled high-resolution 3D images of the Nadir Crater, a 9 km-wide impact site hidden 300 meters below the Atlantic seafloor. Formed 66 million years ago by an asteroid strike, the crater coincides with the dinosaur-extinction event linked to the Chicxulub impact. The data reveals details of the immediate aftermath, including massive tsunamis and liquefied sediments.
Ancient asteroid impact reshaped moon's south pole
Reported by AI
A new study reveals that a massive asteroid struck the moon from the north about 4.3 billion years ago, forming the vast South Pole-Aitken basin and exposing deep interior materials. This glancing blow explains the basin's uneven terrain and the concentration of key elements on the moon's near side. The findings could aid NASA's Artemis missions in uncovering lunar history.
Asteroid 2025 QV9 Approaches Earth Safely
Reported by AI
NASA is tracking asteroid 2025 QV9, a 100-foot object moving at over 10,000 mph, set to pass Earth on September 10, 2025, with no risk of impact. While some reports raise alarms, official data confirms a safe distance. This event highlights ongoing planetary defense efforts.
Asteroid 2025 QH16 Passes Earth Safely
Asteroid 2025 QH16, approximately 43 feet wide, flew past Earth at over 18,500 mph on September 2, 2025. NASA monitored the close approach, confirming no threat. The event highlights ongoing asteroid tracking efforts.